Trent Hodkinson has had a secret medical examination of his 'dicky' knee by Manly - but the NRL may block his move to the Sea Eagles.

Manly have a contract ready for the former NSW State of Origin star after he passed his medical but the NRL still needs to be satisfied that the club has sorted out its salary cap "issues" before allowing them to sign a player on around $800,000 a season.

The Sea Eagles are desperate for a five-eighth following the departure of Blake Green to the Warriors and see Hodkinson as a good fit.

ANZ Stadium - Friday March 30th, 5:10 am

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Southern Cross Group Stadium - Friday March 30th, 9:05 am

Newcastle halfback Trent Hodkinson is keen to move to Manly but is facing opposition from the NRL. (AAP)

According to reports, his knee has responded well to the off-season break and Hodkinson knows the Manly system, having started his career at Brookvale back in 2010 before moving to Canterbury and then the Knights.